Lands Minister, Perrance Shiri has refuted claims by Norton legislator (independent), Temba Mliswa that there were politicians, particularly in the ruling ZANU PF who were in the business of illegally resettling citizens.
Mliswa had suggested that Shiri who was appointed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa to deal with the issue of land barons was sleeping on duty. In response, Shiri said:
I am not aware of any Zanu PF officials who have been resettling people outside the normal channels. However, if the Hon. Member has got evidence to that extent, we will be more than happy to look into the matters.
He added that his office had engaged the Zimbabwe Republic Police to help with the investigations and flushing out of illegal settlers.
Recently, Shiri said that he was aware that some illegal settlers were victims of land barons and would intervene and regularise some settlements whilst some who are at inappropriate sites would be refunded and relocated to better places.
Residential stands have over the years been as a political tool by politicians and local government authorities would usually demolish residents’ structures later.
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